The Importance Of Gratitude
A thankful outlook helps us to focus on the positives in life, even when things aren't going to plan. This has a hugely beneficial impact on our mental health and wellbeing. A recent Japanese study among pensioners concluded that older people had an "attitude of gratitude" which kept them feeling hopeful, even though they faced many age-related challenges.
The role of gratitude in relation to our mental health is important, because if we're grateful for what we've got, rather than feeling disappointed because we don't have everything we'd like, it can completely transform our view of life. Being thankful boosts contentment and happiness by a considerable margin.
When we're grateful, the brain releases chemicals associated with happiness dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters make us feel good. Meditation guru Emily Fletcher says that gratitude is a natural anti-depressant which, when practised daily, allows us to develop a more positive outlook.
Another study showed that people who wrote letters of gratitude while undertaking counselling recovered more quickly than those who received counselling alone. Even our perception of the intensity of physical pain is reduced by counting our blessings instead of our burdens.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
I Can't Wait To Play The Queen Mum
Gracing screens, treading boards, royal roles much-loved actress Dame Penelope Wilton has done it all!
TAKING CANCER TO THE CATWALK X
Teacher Mary Jones reflects on the extraordinary way her breast cancer diagnosis challenged her view on womanhood and ultimately led her to a London catwalk
Fighting For All Women
Diagnosed with breast cancer aged 36, Jessica Parsons is raising awareness of the disease in younger women
The Fall Guy
Surely Caitlin’s boyfriend had nothing to do with all the drama going on at the jeweller’s...
The Widow At Number Ten
There were many secrets to unpack in this old house
Old Habits Die Hard
Even for our lively suburb, gunshots were pretty unusual and was curious to find out what was going on
A Wedding To Remember
Surely nothing would spoil this special day.
Distinctly Feline Flavour
Desperation forces Chris to add something unusual to his cup of tea!
The Old Burgundy Book
Within its ageing pages Rosie found a story of fading romance and a fresh chance for love to bloom...
The Haunted Ballroom
Mysteries swirled around this magical place...